The Nigeria Football Coaches Association (NFCA), Oyo State Chapter Grassroots Developmental Unit, under the leadership of Coach AJIBOLA M ABIODUN (HOD), has kicked off a four-week seminar aimed at shaping the future of grassroots football. Organized through the association’s Grassroots Developmental Unit, the event, themed “Building a Holistic Grassroots Player,” commenced on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Urban Day Grammar School, Ibadan.
The seminar is designed to equip young footballers with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance their careers. Through expert-led training and educational sessions, players will gain insight into various aspects of the game, from tactical awareness to sportsmanship and professional growth.
The first phase of the event featured participants from Lagelu, Egbeda, Ona-Ara, and Ibadan North East Local Government Areas. The initiative aims to reach talented players across the state, providing them with opportunities to develop their abilities under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
A lineup of esteemed football experts and coaches shared their knowledge with the young athletes. The speakers included:
Oyeleke Oyebode Akanni – President, Oyo State Federation of Boys & Girls Clubs
Grace Towobola MSc, MED – UEFA Licensed Coach, 2022/23 Chevening Scholar, 2023-2026 International Olympic Committee Young Leader for Nigeria, Training Officer, NFCA – Oyo State Chapter
Adewuyi Foluso Ajayi – CAF “C” License & FIFA Referee
Coach Ajibola M Abiodun– HOD, NFCA Grassroots Developmental Unit, Oyo State Chapter. Over 500 players accredited for this great event and this is a challenges on other zones to work more harder to achieve more than that.
The success of this initiative is credited to a dedicated team of organizers, including Coach Odelabi Oluwaseyi Joel (Secretary), Coach ADANLA ABASS, Coach Busari Diekola, Coach Segun Ayeni, Coach Saheed Oyebola, Coach Ayilaran Sunday, Coach Olusola John and Coach Adewumi Temitope.
Special appreciation was extended to Egbeda, Ibadan North East, Ona-Ara, and Lagelu Local Governments for their unwavering support in fostering grassroots football. Gratitude was also expressed to Dr. Abiodun Salami, NFCA National Vice President 1, and Coach Adeyemo Ayodeji, NFCA Oyo State Chairman, Coach Samuel Emiato Leader of the NFCA LOCAL COUNCIL LEADERS for their presence and contributions.
The seminar continues as the “Moving Training” shifts to Ibadan SouthWest and Oluyole on Saturday, March 8, 2025. This marks another step in NFCA’s commitment to nurturing football talents and creating a platform for young players to thrive.
For aspiring footballers and stakeholders in Oyo State, this seminar is a golden opportunity to refine skills, gain knowledge, and take their game to the next level.
